Work Online Dominica (WOD) is an initiative by the Government of Dominica through the Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy, in collaboration with IsraAID, Dominica State College (DSC) and the UNDP. The goal of this initiative is to teach professionals between the ages of 18 – 45 years, over the course of 12 weeks, on how to get started working online, find new sources of income, and increase financial stability. This program was created to guide and train participants on the roadmap for accessing an alternative pathway of generating income online by leveraging and building their skills. This is a part of a larger plan to assist Dominicans with taking advantage of the Global Job Market and contribute to Dominica’s Digital Economy agenda.
The stage is now prepared for an empowering voyage, as the eagerly awaited initiation call for the Work Online Dominica (WOD) 4 Cohort unfolded on Sunday, August 27th, 2023. Against the digital backdrop, participants and stakeholders convened on the virtual platform Zoom, signalling the inception of an immersive 12-week journey.
The commencement call, a pivotal event within the WOD program, offered participants a comprehensive introduction to the program’s aim and the ambitious roadmap for the forthcoming weeks. With an impressive participation of 75 individuals, attendees joined the call brimming with enthusiasm and anticipation for the journey ahead. The fourth cohort of the Work Online Dominica initiative has made the choice to involve over 60 participants this year. This expansion has accommodated additional individuals with disabilities and men at risk, allowing them to take part in the program. Furthermore, arrangements have been put in place to include five more individuals on a supplementary waitlist.
The event’s agenda encompassed a series of enlightening sessions, all designed to provide participants with an in-depth exploration of the program’s intricacies:
The event commenced with a warm welcome from the Digital Skills Specialists, Dr. Clementine Affana and Dr. Marie Pascale Affana, setting a positive tone for the call and fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants.
Ms. Cornealia Guiste from the IsraAID Team shared inspiring insights, emphasising the program’s potential to catalyse positive change and forge digital opportunities.
Mr. Robert Tonge, Coordinator of the Digital Economy in Dominica, provided valuable outlook from the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project– Project Implementation Unit, underscoring the importance of digital skills in shaping a resilient and dynamic economy, including the utilisation of the 16 Digital Hubs spread across the island.
The Digital Skills Specialists presented an overview of the program’s curriculum, course Logistics and expectations, outlining the pivotal learning domains and skills that participants can anticipate acquiring during their expedition.
The call concluded with an interactive Q&A session, granting participants the opportunity to seek clarifications, voice inquiries, and directly engage with the experts.
